The holidays are a great time for adult children, and even grandchildren to help seniors get up to date on technology. Many seniors have electronic items in their home that they are unfamiliar with. They may not even attempt to use them because they cannot figure them out. By taking some time to teach seniors a few things about technological items, they will be able to enjoy the items they have.

1.            Most seniors have a computer in the home but only use it to send emails. There are even some seniors who are not online. Setting up an email account is a great way to enable seniors to stay in touch with friends and family members. For those who already have email, show them some of the other things they can do online, such as looking up important medical information.

2.            Most seniors have cell phones, but they do not know how to enter contact information. Take some time to set up their phone book and show them how to navigate through the menu on their phone.

3.            Programming remotes may seem like a simple task for most people, but seniors often have trouble with this. Instead of programming it for them, walk through the steps and teach them how to do it. The smile and glimmer in their eyes when they finally “get it” will be very rewarding!

Source: Broadneck Patch

Home Care Boston providing elderly services in Cambridge, Boston, and Somerville. Call us at 617.557.4600.

Research has revealed that some of the same things that are done to maintain physical health will also help mental health. A healthy body will promote a healthy mind, but it will also work in the opposite way. Many people who have an illness and a positive mind set will overcome the illness and have good health. The following list offers information on how to keep a healthy mind while aging.

1.            Physical activity is very important for seniors. Not only will it help maintain the strength of bones and muscles, but it will help with mental health as well. In addition, keeping blood pressure and cholesterol levels low will also be beneficial.

2.            Exercise can be very beneficial. It will decrease heart rates, lower blood pressure, improve energy and can even help to prevent the onset and progression of dementia.

3.            Activities that stimulate the mind are suggested. Seniors should try to read, do crossword puzzles and engage in other activities that force them to use their minds on a regular basis.

4.            Having low blood pressure will reduce the chances of a stroke. Strokes are linked to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. High blood pressure will cause damage to blood vessels which can later create many health problems. To help maintain and lower blood pressure, seniors should watch their weight, avoid smoking and exercise regularly.

Source: GMHF Online

Home Care Boston providing elderly services in Cambridge, Boston, and Somerville. Call us at 617.557.4600.

Having a healthy mind provides many benefits to seniors. Unfortunately, some seniors do not take the steps to promote mental health. By having a healthy mind, seniors will be able to avoid many health problems. Mental fitness can also help seniors life a longer life. It is important for seniors to make sure they engage in mentally stimulating activities and exercises that will help maintain and improve mental fitness.

1.            Stress is a common mental issue that many seniors experience. High levels of stress can lead to depression and anxiety. To help reduce stress seniors should have someone they can talk to. Physical activity, such as walking can also help to reduce stress.

2.            Seniors should protect themselves from falls as much as possible. Injuries to the head can affect the health of the brain. By avoiding falls, seniors can maintain mental fitness.

3.            Staying socially active is one way for seniors to stay mentally fit. Social interaction will force seniors to use their mind. Having social outlets is also a great way to reduce stress. By taking care of the mind, seniors will be improving their overall health and reducing the chances of suffering from future medical problems.

4.            Mental fitness can improve health for many seniors. When the mind is healthy, the body has a lower chance of problems. Seniors with good mental health have lower rates of stroke and heart attack.

Source: GMHF Online

Home Care Boston providing elderly services in Cambridge, Boston, and Somerville. Call us at 617.557.4600.

The baby boomer generation has redefined each stage of life and is now entering their golden years. As this generation heads into the senior years, there are many concerns in regards to health, finances and family. One of the major concerns for baby boomers is the current health car system. The following list contains additional information for those going into their senior years.

1.            More than 59% of American Baby Boomers have a serious concern about the health care system that is in place. The majority of these individuals believe their generation will overload the system.

2.            A large portion of Baby Boomers will work past the retirement age in fear of possible financial restraints. Baby Boomers are actually being encouraged to continue working for as long as they can.

3.            69% of working Americans feel it is their responsibility to provide for people of the generations that came before them.

4.            These statistics were gathered from a study that was conducted by the Home Instead Family Care network. 1029 American adults participated in the study. The information paints a picture of what members of the Baby Boomer generation will face as they enter retirement.

Source: Home Instead

Home Care Boston providing elderly services in Cambridge, Boston, and Somerville. Call us at 617.557.4600.

Maintaining good health is essential for a long life. Many people are living much longer, which makes staying healthy even more important. In addition to staying physically active and eating a healthy diet, seniors also have to pay attention to their mental well being. The mind can also benefit from many of the same things that promote good physical health. The following list contains some interesting information on healthy aging.

1.            Low cholesterol, low blood pressure, healthy weight, physical activity and a healthy diet will all benefit the mind and the body.

2.            There will be many changes that occur in mind and body as we age. It is important for seniors to do all they can to keep their mind active and healthy.

3.            By being active and having lower cholesterol levels, the brain will receive oxygen-rich blood. This will help promote and maintain mental health.

4.            There are many ways in which seniors can keep their mind and body healthy. Doing simple things like reading, crossword puzzles and staying active in a social aspect can all provide great benefits.

5.            Many seniors, and a lot of caregivers, will underestimate the power of social interaction. For seniors to stay healthy physically and mentally, being involved with other people is essential.

Source: GMHF Online

Home Care Boston providing elderly services in Cambridge, Boston, and Somerville. Call us at 617.557.4600.

Each year, more and more senior individuals require some assistance in the home. However, some seniors require more than a caregiver. They will require additional services that can be arranged through various agencies. In the United States, elder care is an issue that has gained a lot of attention. The following list provides some important facts about elder care.

1.            More than 12% of the population in the United States is over the age of 65. This is expected to double in the next 25 years. It is believed that by the year 2030, almost 72 million US residents will be over 65.

2.            The population of those over the age of 85 is expected to double by 2030, reaching 9.6 million individuals.

3.            More than 80% of those considered to be a senior have at least one chronic health condition. These are the people that will benefit from home care in the future.

4.            There are millions of people, about 25% of the population, who are currently providing assistance to a senior parent or family member. A large percentage of all caregivers are women.

5.            Typically, the average caregiver is a female around 46 years of age who is married and employed at a full time job.

6.            Of those who have a caregiver, 88% report that that person is their spouse.

7.            Most caregivers will spend more than 40 hours a week providing care and 70% are spending less time with their family and friends as a result. 90% of all caregivers suffer from depression.

8.            Studies have indicated that extreme stress from being a caregiver can take as many as ten years off the life expectancy of the caregiver. Caregivers also are more prone to having a chronic condition as a result of the stress, depression and exhaustion that comes along with being a caregiver.

Source: Home Instead

Home Care Boston providing elderly services in Cambridge, Boston, and Somerville. Call us at 617.557.4600.

Getting through the holidays can cause a lot of stress and anxiety for many seniors. The result is often a bout of depression. Dealing with depression following the holidays is very important. It is actually quite normal for seniors to be depressed during and following the holiday season. There are various reasons for the depression, including loss of independence, the feeling of being alone, loss of mobility, failing health and financial limitations. The following contains some additional information on holiday depression in senior individuals.

1.            Most feelings of depression around the holidays are temporary. Seniors will be able to continue functioning and will go on with daily activities. However, there are some seniors who will become clinically depressed and will not be able to function. This is when the senior will need some professional help.

2.            Seniors who have changes in sleep and eating habits may be depressed. They will also show very little interest in things they usually enjoy. These are key signs that the senior may be suffering from depression.

3.            If the depression is ignored and not treated, it can lead to other problems such as an additional loss of independence, premature death, suicidal thoughts and actions and the aggravation of symptoms associated with other illnesses.

4.            Caregivers and family members need to watch for depression warning signs around the holidays. These include changes in mood, behavior, habits and weight, inability to concentrate, lack of energy and interest, persistent sadness and withdrawal socially.

5.            There are many forms of treatment available to help seniors deal with their depression, but the first step is to notice the symptoms and talk to a doctor.

Source: GMHF Online

Home Care Boston providing elderly services in Cambridge, Boston, and Somerville. Call us at 617.557.4600.

Anxiety is a mental disorder that can affect many Boston seniors. Some seniors are actually unaware that they have anxiety issues. This is because many of the symptoms can be confused with everyday ups and downs. However, there are certain symptoms that can indicate that a senior does have anxiety. These individuals should seek treatment for the disorder to help prevent further complications and other health issues.

1.            When anxiety is not treated, it can cause other problems, including cognitive decline, poor physical health and a poor quality of life.

2.            There are different types of anxiety disorders and not every senior will experience the same symptoms. Specific phobias are a common form of anxiety. This is when a senior has an intense and irrational fear of something that does not pose an immediate threat. Other types of anxiety include social phobias, generalized anxiety disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and panic disorder.

3.            Many seniors who have anxiety issues will also have symptoms of depression as well. It is important to know the different signs of depression and anxiety.

4.            Anxiety can be caused by many different things, such as a family history of the disorder, mental illness, extreme stress or trauma, bereavement and excessive use of alcohol, drugs or caffeine.

5.            Family members, friends and caretakers should all be aware of the symptoms of anxiety. Seniors should know them as well. The symptoms can include worry and fear, racing heart, poor sleep habits, depression, muscle tension, the avoidance of social situations, hoarding, being overly concerned with safety and self-medicating.

6.            This disorder can be easily treated when the symptoms are spotted and all seniors who have an anxiety problem should discuss possible treatment with their doctor.

Source: GMHF Online

Home Care Boston providing elderly services in Cambridge, Boston, and Somerville. Call us at 617.557.4600.

When the family comes together, this makes for the perfect time to make sure elderly family members are safe at home in Boston. There are many things to look for without coming right out and asking questions that may be embarrassing. The list below contains six things that should be noted while visiting for the holidays. Any changes should be noted and if necessary, action should be taken as soon as possible.

1.            If the elderly family member is still driving, assess their skills. Even though they have been driving for many years, it may no longer be safe for them to do so. Ask if they have had any tickets or small accidents in the recent past. Look for dents on the car. If there is concern about their driving safety, schedule a driving test with the DMV.

2.            Make sure the senior is getting the proper nutrition. Check the cabinets and refrigerator to make sure they have food to make a meal with and not just a snack. If the senior cannot prepare their own meals any longer, arrange something with Meals on Wheels to help.

3.            Check on finances. See if there are unpaid bills lying around. Many seniors become forgetful and will neglect to pay bills on time.

4.            Watch for any balance problems. When seniors have issues with their balance, they will begin to experience many falls. Watch how they walk and go up and down stairs. Older family members may benefit from a medical alert bracelet.

5.            While talking to the senior, make note of any changes in their memory. Try to talk about recent events to see what they recall. Also check to make sure they are not forgetting to take their medications.

6.            Some seniors will experience loneliness and depression. This can be noticed by changes in behavior. Often, when a senior is depressed, their hygiene will begin to suffer. Check to see that their clothes are clean and they are caring for their personal hygiene.

Source: Eldercare ABC Blog

Home Care Boston providing elderly services in Cambridge, Boston, and Somerville. Call us at 617.557.4600.